The Managing Director of Edo Broadcasting Service, Sulaiman Aledeh, has promised to revisit the circumstances surrounding the leasing of the organisation’s facility in Uromi to a private entity and reclaim it immediately.
While promising to revitalise EBS and reconnect with the citizens of Edo North, Aledeh reassured the Ihievbe community that measures are being put in place to energise the station.
According to him, the people will soon start to enjoy the fresh, engaging programming that aligns with the initiatives of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
A statement from EBS said Aledeh made the promises during a significant visit to its outstation in Uromi in Edo Central.
He also visited Ihievbe as part of efforts to revitalise EBS and reconnect with the citizens of Edo North.
Travelling along the lush landscape, Aledeh reflected on the current status of two critical outstations: one that has been silent for too long and another in Uromi that is caught in a web of bureaucratic red tape.
The outstation in Edo North was said to have become a ghost of its former self as its studio sits locked and covered in dust.
The statement said, “An eerie silence envelops the facilities, and this disheartening sight pains Aledeh. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the security team and the Nigerian Army. However, a certain level of security is restored to the premises.
“Soldiers stand guard inside and outside the station, providing the much-needed assurance that soon, life will return to the airwaves, allowing the voice of Edo North to be heard once more.”
Aledeh reassured the community that measures are being put in place to energize the station,
“This station will rise again.
“Be patient with us; we’re working hard to bring EBS back to you!”, he proclaims as he meets with locals who congregate at the entrance, eager for reassurance and updates.
Turning South West toward the Uromi station in Edo Central, Aledeh feels a mix of concern and determination as his attention was drawn to the fact that the Uromi facility, once a cornerstone of community broadcasting, has been leased to a private entity.
The news shocked him and ignited a fire within to investigate the circumstances surrounding the decision.
This is not merely a matter of property; it is a significant issue involving the voice of the Edo people and their right to accessible media.
Aledeh said, “We will revisit the circumstances of this lease,” he asserts, meeting the eyes of his colleagues, who are equally committed to reclaiming the asset for the public good.
“EBS belongs to the people of Edo, and we will fight to restore what is theirs.”
With a promise to reclaim Uromi, Aledeh seized the opportunity to introduce a new initiative: a Grassroots Governance program, which aims to bridge the gap between the government and the citizens, fostering better communication and allowing young journalists to participate as freelancers.
“This is your chance to be heard. The narrative of Edo belongs to you, and we need your voices”, he emphasized, inspiring the youth.
Grateful for the support, he receives from Governor Monday Okpebholo and community leaders across political lines, Aledeh leaves Ihievbe filled with hope.
Before departing, he addresses the gathered crowd, wishing them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
“Together, we will build a stronger Edo Broadcasting Service that reflects the heartbeat of our communities”, he said.
As he drives away, the sun sets on the horizon, illuminating the paths he has walked.
Aledeh feels the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, but he also senses the pulse of a community ready for change, eager to once again share their stories through the airwaves of EBS.
The journey begins, and the promise of the future echoes in the hearts of the people of Edo.
